August 17, 2004

BLACKSBURG, Va. - Virginia Tech has announced the hiring of Genevieve McNeill as the second assistant on the swimming and diving team. McNeill joins assistant Braden Holloway as new editions to head coach Ned Skinner's squad.

"I am so excited about this opportunity Ned has given me, to coach at a Division I school in the ACC. I couldn't have asked for anything more," said McNeill.

McNeill comes to Tech from Arkansas, where she most recently finished her masters in teaching, physical education K-12 in May. She also received her bachelor of science in education, kinesiology, K-12 in May, 2003.

"Genny comes from a strong SEC program and learned from a fine coach in Anne Goodman-Jones," said Skinner. "I am very excited about the addition of Genevieve McNeill to our staff. Genny's enthusiasm for the sport and high energy is a perfect fit for our program."

As an undergraduate, she set the school record in the 400 medley relay in 2001, was named to the CSCAA Academic National Championship Team in the fall of 2002 and was also a member on the academic honor roll.

While at Arkansas, McNeill participated in Arkansas Athletes Outreach from 1999-2003, where she helped in holiday food drives and volunteered for programs at elementary schools.

A member of American Swimming Coaches Association (ASCA), she was a swimming instructor in Gulfport, Mississippi for five years. Before becoming a Hokie, McNeill was a swim instructor with the Razorback Aquatic Club, where she taught children between the ages of 2-18.

For four summers, McNeill was the assistant swim coach and teacher with the Biloxi Red Tide swim team as well as a lifeguard at the City of Biloxi Natatorium.

"Virginia Tech has been so welcoming, the staff, students, and all, and it is really a blessing to be a part of such a great family," stated McNeill. "We as a staff have some wonderful ideas and opportunities for our athletes and program and I am so thrilled to see the outcome of this year!

At the 2004 BIG EAST Championships, both Tech squads finished third.